Bhubaneswar: A day after a powerful explosion left five people critically injured in Sundarpada area of Bhubaneswar, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) initiated a preliminary probe into the incident to ascertain as to how the blast occurred.
As per information, a team of NIA officials visited New Azad Nagar locality in Sundarpada, where the explosion took place on Tuesday afternoon.
As part of the exercise, the team members inspected the blast site and questioned several people to ascertain the circumstances that led to the explosion.
As the case is now being investigated by the Airfield Police Station of the city, the agency has not launched any formal probe so far and the ongoing exercise is aimed at determining whether any conspiracy involved in the blast.
As per senior police officials, the explosion occurred on Tuesday afternoon atop a five-storey buil
ding and the deafening sound triggered panic among locals.
Among the injured were Sehenwaz Malik and his associate Amiya Mallik. Sehenwaz’s mother and his female friend also sustained grievous injuries. All the injured were initially shifted to Capital Hospital and later moved to a private hospital for further treatment.
Following the blast, fire service personnel rushed to the spot and doused the flames. A scientific team also carried out a detailed inspection of the site. A large quantity of explosive materials, including gunpowder and detonators, was recovered from the building.
Police said Sehenwaz, a wanted criminal, had been living on rent in the building along with his mother, friend, and associate. Taking advantage of the absence of the building owner, he was allegedly using the top floor to prepare bombs.
Bhubaneswar DCP Jagmohan Meena said those involved in preparing bombs were responsible for the explosion. They are undergoing treatment at present and appropriate legal action will be taken after they recover, he said, adding that the injured people have criminal antecedents.
The Airfield police station has registered a case, and further investigation is in progress. CCTV footage from nearby areas is also being examined as part of the investigation.